“The feeling is bittersweet”: Paula Badosa leans on experience ahead of Madrid comeback
WTAMonday, 20 April 2026 at 02:30
Paula Badosa will begin her campaign at the Madrid Open against Julia Grabher, marking her return to the WTA 1000 event under different circumstances from previous years. The former world No. 2 enters the tournament with a wildcard, her current ranking of No. 196 leaving her outside the main draw entry list.
The draw places Badosa in a section where a second-round meeting with 24th seed Leylah Fernandez could follow if she advances. The Spaniard, now 28, returns to a tournament that has historically been one of her strongest at WTA 1000 level, particularly on clay.
Her best result in Madrid came in 2021, when she reached the semi-finals, one of five appearances at that stage in WTA 1000 events across her career and the only one achieved on clay. However, she did not compete in the 2025 edition due to injury, adding further context to her current position.
Badosa arrives in Madrid on a difficult run of results, having lost three consecutive matches on clay. Despite that sequence, her assessment of her level suggests a disconnect between performance and outcomes, with physical improvement offset by the absence of victories.
Badosa targets stability after difficult run
The Spaniard addressed her situation in an interview with AS, where she pointed to gradual improvements in her game despite the lack of results. She described her recent matches as competitive but emotionally demanding, highlighting the challenge of maintaining consistency across key moments.
“My level is getting better and better, but emotionally the matches have been tough. The wins are not falling my way and the feeling is bittersweet. The good thing is that physically I feel better and better. The continuity is very positive because it is something I had not felt for a long time.”
Her focus now shifts to the mental dimension of performance, which she identified as the next step in her progression. Managing pressure situations and controlling in-match thoughts have become central objectives as she looks to rebuild consistency across full matches.
“The next step is to manage tense moments and control my thoughts. That is what I have pending for the next step, but it is something I have already experienced and I hope to find the solution. I need to be consistent in my game throughout the whole match. My mental health experiences now help me handle it better, knowing that nothing is forever.”
Madrid return carries emotional significance
Beyond the competitive context, Badosa emphasised the importance of Madrid as a personal and professional milestone. The tournament represents both a familiar environment and an opportunity to reconnect with a level she has previously demonstrated at the highest tier.
Her connection with the home crowd remains a key factor, particularly during a period where results have not matched expectations. “Madrid is a tournament that means a lot to me and is very important," the former world No. 2 added. "The people support me a lot and in this difficult moment that support is going to be very important. I hope I can show my best version. I really feel the affection of the people in the streets, it is something that moves me.”
A potential second-round match against Fernandez would offer an early benchmark for her level, but the immediate focus remains on the opening match against Grabher. For Badosa, the objective is less about the draw and more about translating improved physical condition into consistent results.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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